Jennifer Hegseth, the wife of US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, has attracted scrutiny over her prominent and unofficial presence at Pentagon events and meetings. Sources quoted by the Daily Mail claim she exerts considerable influence over her husband and has been nicknamed “Yoko Ono” by some staff, while critics say her involvement raises concerns about transparency and appropriate access.

The article says Jennifer attended sensitive discussions, including talks involving Ukraine and a Signal chat about US strikes on Houthi rebels, despite holding no formal Pentagon position. She has also reportedly helped restrict journalists’ access, while the White House recently appointed her chairwoman of a new Presidential Military Spouse Commission; supporters portray her role as backing military families and helping manage her husband’s public image.